ok, so I'm a mazda/rotary n00b, but my girlfriend loves the RX-8. She wants to get one eventually (current things are keeping her from replacing her current car), but shes been hearing a lot of bad things about them. Could some of you shed some light on what problems the RX-8's have, and how common they are? One of the main things we've heard is that the overheat and drink a lot of oil. We have also heard that the AT's are not well built. The car will most likely remain stock, but will be driven pretty hard.

thanks for your help guys

 

Expect 18-19mpg (manual), and to add a quart of oil every few thousand miles (it's not "burned," it's used for lubrication - it's normal).

Do a search to find the threads regarding problems in Las Vegas last summer during the insane heat wave. In normal environments, I'm not aware of any overheating issues. It hits 100+ on occasion here (PA) during the summer, and I've never had a problem.

Also read up on the "flooding" issue. It seems to have been mostly resolved now, but it's something you should be aware of. For what it's worth, it's never happened to me, even though I break the "don't turn it off when cold" rule all the time.

Sunroof can rattle (there's a part that needs some lube now and then or it squeaks).

Good luck finding the trunk release without looking in the manual.

The parking brake handle often won't go down all the way in cold weather. The plastic boot gets stiff and won't flex. It can also break off (boot, not handle). They seem to be using a softer plastic when they replace it.

The clips which hold the cup holder sliding cover on are fragile. Lean on it and they break.

The stock tires are loud once they start wearing. And you MUST replace them if you drive in snow.

Otherwise, I beat the crap outa mine (in a good, driving it hard way) and it's been dead-on reliable (aside from the little things noted above) for almost two years now.

 

I have an early build 04 with over 60K on it. I have had a few issues that were dealt with under warranty and had to replace the motor a couple of K's ago out of my pocket (no good reason for factory motor failure - just "one of those things" according to Mazda), but overall I have enjoyed the ride. There isn't a vehicle like it at the price on the road today IMHO.

 

If she hasn't already, make sure she test drives it. That can make all the difference in deciding whether you really want one, or if you just *think* you want one. Granted, I've only had mine for 2 months, but I love it.

 

never seen one word of overheating except mine which was caused by stupidity. read the stickies for common problems.

 

is your GF dead set on getting automatic? or is she open to getting the 6 speed and learn how to drive manual, if she doesn't already.

 

i think the biggest problem now is loss of power